Good morning, peeps! “HAPPY BIRTHDAY!” to my fellow Leo, Linda who turns 39 (again?!) today. Carla and the girls are taking her out for breakfast this morning – I can’t go because I’m playing golf. Let’s see – what would be more fun – golf with my buddies, or breakfast with a bunch of girls??  HELLOOOO?!! …..
I had lunch at the original Side Street Inn which is located right below our IOLANI store on Kona St. near the Ala Moana Shopping Center. Their spicy chicken is one of my favorites along with their pork chops and sweet & sour spare ribs. Side Street just opened up a second restaurant on Kapahulu Ave., but the original one on Hopaka St. is still the BEST!
Tonight we’re going to the bon dance at the Koganji Temple here in Manoa. The o-bon season runs through August, and it’s a time to honor the spirits of family members who have passed, as well as a time to celebrate our community and culture. The o-bon festivals are held throughout O’ahu and the other islands and I love it because they always have some of my favorite local-style grinds. People come dressed in brightly colored yukata and hapi coats to dance to many of the traditional Japanese folk songs. Anyone can join in and it’s not unusual to see tourists dancing right along with the locals … it’s a really cool community event!
See you there … aloha, “D”!